Why smart TVs could be restaurants’ next ordering channel

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

November 6, 2026

Guests will soon be able to order dinner from their TVs without reaching for a phone or pausing the game. Starting with a launch expected in December, viewers…

Wonder sets the table for IPO

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

November 6, 2026

New York-based Wonder Group Inc. has taken its first formal step toward Wall Street, confidentially submitting a draft registration statement to the U.S.

Cava's Q3 miss hides a bet on larger dining rooms, half portions and value

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

A produce scare and gas prices slowed traffic, but the Mediterranean chain raised its sales outlook and laid out where it sees growth next.

Cava misses Q3 targets, betting big on GMs

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The Mediterranean chain fell short of Wall Street estimates, but its earnings call doubled as a playbook for building restaurant leaders.

Dave’s Hot Chicken turns up the heat on second-generation space

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Dannon Shiff, SVP of Real Estate, will speak about Dave's site selection strategy and more at the annual Connect Retail West on Nov. 17 in Los Angeles.

What the 2026 midterm results could mean for restaurants

by Cherryh Cansler , Valerie Gritton

The 2026 midterm election results could reshape federal policy affecting restaurant brands, putting immigration reform, credit card processing fees and trade…

Pumpkin shares the fall spotlight with apple, squash and bolder flavors

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Pumpkin still anchors plenty of fall menus this year, but restaurant brands are also leaning on apple, squash and a few less traditional flavors to pull guests…

Wonder's delivery robots move past pilot phase

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

November 2, 2026

Wonder is expanding its autonomous robot delivery partnership with Avride to four markets, a year after the companies first tested the robots at Wonder's…

4 operations moves behind Starbucks' 2027 growth plan

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

Promoted-from-within store coaches, AI that helps baristas take drive-thru orders, adding delivery to the app and a smaller-format store are how Starbucks…

From AI to catering: 8 ways Chipotle is retooling for growth

by Cherryh Cansler — Publisher, FastCasual.com

The chain missed Wall Street’s forecast but still grew revenue. AI, catering and faster lines are next.